Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Stuffed Chicken Alfredo Shells recipe is the perfect answer for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner. Forget takeout – this homemade dish is bursting with creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked jumbo pasta shells, all baked to golden perfection. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or impressing friends. Let's dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 (16 ounce) jar Alfredo sauce
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken (if not pre-cooked)
If you haven't pre-cooked your chicken, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until fully cooked through and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes per side. Let cool slightly, then shred with two forks.
Step 3: Combine the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, spinach, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells
Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken Alfredo mixture. Don't overfill – you want the shells to hold their shape during baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in the prepared dish. Sprinkle any remaining cheese mixture over the top.
Step 6: Bake and Serve
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. Let stand for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Tips for Delicious Stuffed Shells:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better when stuffed and baked.
- Squeeze out excess water from the spinach: This prevents a watery filling.
- Use high-quality Alfredo sauce: The flavor of the sauce significantly impacts the overall taste of the dish.
- Pre-shredding the cheese: This ensures even melting and distribution.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to the filling for added flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like ricotta or provolone.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a truly satisfying dinner.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on specific ingredients used. For a precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator and input your exact ingredients and serving size. However, expect a meal relatively high in calories, fat, and carbohydrates due to the pasta and cheese. It's a good source of protein from the chicken.
This Stuffed Chicken Alfredo Shells recipe is a perfect example of how quick dinner ideas can also be healthy meals and delicious dishes. Enjoy this easy and flavorful recipe! It’s a simple homemade cooking triumph that's sure to become a family favorite. The best recipes are often the easiest!